OSCE Conflict Prevention Centre Head commends Bosnia and Herzegovina’s efforts towards further regional security

SARAJEVO, 14 November 2012 – Bosnia and Herzegovina’s work aimed at compliance with its OSCE and international politico-military commitments demonstrates the country’s commitment to contribute positively to security in the region and beyond, said Ambassador Adam Kobieracki, the Director of the OSCE Conflict Prevention Centre during a two-day visit to Sarajevo, which concludes today.

Kobieracki met acting Defence Minister of BiH Mirko Okolić, acting Security Minister of BiH Mladen Čavar, Justice Minister of BiH Bariša Čolak, representatives of the BiH Foreign Ministry, chairs of legislative assemblies in BiH, as well as representatives of the international community.

In his meetings, Kobieracki stressed the importance of reconciliation for the country: “Reconciliation contributes to conflict prevention, conflict resolution, post-conflict rehabilitation, and is vital for any society and country - particularly for such a diverse one as Bosnia and Herzegovina. To achieve progress, all stakeholders must envision a future which is more tolerant and based on compromise and understanding, and make efforts to make it a reality.”

Kobieracki also addressed participants of the 5th Review Conference on Compliance with the OSCE/UN Security Commitments of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The aim of the conference, which is organized by the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina, is to assess progress on the implementation and fulfillment of the country’s politico-military commitments and to en-courage constructive debate among political leaders and experts.

“The OSCE, including through its Mission to the country, supports Bosnia and Herzegovina’s efforts to meet its security commitments to the benefit of its people and the OSCE community as a whole,” stated Kobieracki.

He highlighted the successful and professional contribution made by Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Armed Forces to the compliance requirements, including through the Verification Centre’s activities, and encouraged discussion on how compliance can be advanced further, with the participation of all relevant institutions.